Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

If you love the rich, decadent flavors of chocolate and cherries, these Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are your next must-bake treat. They combine a fudgy chocolate cookie crust, a silky vanilla cheesecake layer, and a topping of sweet cherry pie filling for a dessert that’s both beautiful and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of chocolate and cherries creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, these bars are quick to whip up.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress.
• Customizable Toppings: Add dark chocolate shavings or whipped cream for extra flair and flavor.
• Make Ahead Option: These cheesecake bars can be made in advance, allowing for stress-free entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Black Forest Cheesecake Bars, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• 9×9 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re set.
• Electric mixer: Ensures a smooth cream cheese mixture without lumps, which is crucial for the texture of your cheesecake layer.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream (for a creamy texture)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• Optional: dark chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
• Optional: whipped cream for serving

How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This initial step ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line your square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will help you lift out the cheesecake bars easily once they’re done baking.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter and granulated sugar.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even crust.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add in granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cookie crust in the baking pan.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30–35 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before topping with cherry pie filling.

Step 6: Serve Your Bars

Once cooled, spread cherry pie filling evenly on top of the cheesecake layer. Cut into squares and serve with optional dark chocolate shavings or whipped cream if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Black Forest Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, here’s how to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnish with Chocolate Shavings

• Use dark chocolate shavings or curls to add an elegant touch and enhance the chocolate flavor.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream on top creates a creamy contrast to the rich cheesecake bars.

Serve with Fresh Cherries

• Fresh cherries not only look beautiful but also add a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the sweetness.

Add a Dusting of Cocoa Powder

• Lightly dusting cocoa powder over the top provides a sophisticated finish and intensifies the chocolate taste.

Serve Warm or Chilled

• Depending on your preference, these bars can be enjoyed straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat or slightly warmed for a gooey dessert experience.

How to Perfect Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

To ensure your Black Forest Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly, consider these essential tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to come to room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy filling without lumps.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until blended. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake layer during baking.

• Chill Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely in the refrigerator before cutting them. This sets the layers and makes slicing easier and neater.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add almond extract along with vanilla for an extra depth of flavor that works wonderfully with chocolate and cherries.

Best Side Dishes for Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cheesecake bars.

2. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
   These sweet treats echo the chocolate theme while adding an extra touch of indulgence.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool, smooth contrast to the rich cheesecake texture.

4. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors and brings out the richness of chocolate.

5. Nutty Granola
   A sprinkle of granola offers a crunchy texture that complements the creamy cheesecake bars nicely.

6. Mint Leaves
   Fresh mint leaves can be used as a garnish or served on the side for a refreshing herbal note.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• When baking Black Forest Cheesecake Bars, don’t skip the bold step of preheating the oven. This ensures even cooking and a perfect texture.
• Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter. Mix gently until just combined to prevent air bubbles that can cause cracks during baking.
• Don’t forget to line your baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift out the bars once they cool.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother batter. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps that affect the final texture.
• Ensure you use fresh ingredients, especially for the cherry topping. Stale or old ingredients can compromise flavor and quality.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 325°F (160°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to avoid drying out.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered pan on low heat, adding a few drops of water underneath to create steam for gentle warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Black Forest Cheesecake Bars?

Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert made with a chocolate crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and topped with cherry pie filling. They bring together rich flavors in an easy-to-bake format.

Can I customize the toppings on my Black Forest Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! You can use different fruit toppings like strawberries or blueberries, or even add nuts for extra crunch.

How do I prevent cracks in my Black Forest Cheesecake Bars?

To avoid cracks, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature and mix the batter gently. Baking at a lower temperature also helps maintain moisture.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are perfect for make-ahead desserts as they store well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are not just luxurious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Their combination of chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and cherries makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different fruits or chocolate toppings to create your unique twist on this classic dessert!